diplomatic corps and, indeed, entire nation reels from an attack on the united states consulate in libya with four americans killed, including ambassador christopher stevens. the president visited the state department earlier today signing a book of condolence in honor of ambassador stevens. flags have been ordered at half-staff at white house and all public buildings for five days to honor the deceased. with 55 days until election, violence in libya and cairo has also become a flash point in the presidential campaign. providing a perfect case study in how these candidates respond to crisis. the president spoke in the rose garden this morning, alongside secretary of state hillary clinton. >> as americans, let us never, ever forget that our freedom is only sustained because our people who are willing to fight for it, to stand up for it, and in some cases lay down their lives for it. today we mourn for more americans who represent the very best of the yat of america. we will not waiver in our commitment to see justice is done for this terrible act. make no mistake, justice will be done. >>